8 Nov 2012

New Zealand football doesn't expect issues with EPL clubs

8:36 am on 8 November 2012

The New Zealand Premier League football stars Ryan Nelsen and Winston Reid have both been called up by All Whites coach Ricki Herbert for next week's game against China in Shanghai.

In the last international window, Herbert called back Reid from West Ham but the defender didn't play any minutes causing Hammers manager Sam Allardyce to question the All Whites' coach's decision.

Herbert's named an unchanged squad for the friendly from the last time out against Tahiti in the World Cup qualifiers, and New Zealand Football CEO Grant McKavanagh isn't expecting any problems from Queens Park Rangers or West Ham United.

McKavanagh says they've been clear about their requirements, they've had dialogue with all the clubs and received releases via email - so there shouldn't be any problems.

All of Ricki Herbert's overseas professionals have been called up for the match although China-based striker Chris Killen's domestic season has finished and he won't travel due to personal commitments.

Striker Shane Smeltz is in doubt with a hamstring strain.